Athlon Cronus Thermal and prairie dogs! Custom 223 wylde.

Published on October 18, 2025
Duration: 9:19

This video demonstrates the process of zeroing a new Athlon Cronus ATS50 thermal optic on a custom .223 Wylde rifle. Instructor Joel highlights techniques for target acquisition with thermal optics, including using contrasting markers, and walks through the zeroing process at 50 and 100 yards. The session concludes with attempts at longer-range shooting and a review of the optic's performance for predator hunting.

Quick Summary

Zeroing a thermal optic involves using contrasting markers like folded duct tape or tin foil on your target, as they remain cooler and are more visible. Start at 50 yards to ensure you're on paper, then move to 100 yards for final adjustments to achieve accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Location
  2. 00:11Thermal Optic Overview
  3. 00:36Rifle Build Details
  4. 01:39Coltac Sponsor Mention
  5. 02:01Athlon Cronus Thermal Details
  6. 02:22Ammunition and Zeroing Goal
  7. 02:48Thermal Zeroing Challenges
  8. 03:06Targeting Techniques for Thermal
  9. 04:08Initial 50 Yard Zeroing
  10. 04:47First Shot Analysis
  11. 05:03Moving to 100 Yards
  12. 05:24Checking Paper and Adjustments
  13. 06:03Second Zeroing Attempt
  14. 06:33Confirmed Zero and Group
  15. 07:24Long Range Shooting Attempt
  16. 08:00Coyote Sighting
  17. 08:15Missed Shot
  18. 08:24Optic Review and Conclusion
  19. 08:47Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you zero a thermal optic effectively?

Zeroing a thermal optic requires special techniques. Use contrasting markers like folded duct tape or tin foil on your target, as they remain cooler than the surrounding area and are more visible. Start at 50 yards to ensure you're on paper, then move to 100 yards for final adjustments.

What are the challenges of zeroing a thermal scope?

The primary challenge is visibility. When everything is the same temperature, traditional targets can be hard to see. Using materials that contrast thermally, like metal foil or layered tape, helps create a visible aiming point against the background.

What rifle setup was used for the thermal optic zeroing?

The video features a custom Remington 700 rifle. It has a 16-inch Bartlein barrel in .223 Wylde, a heavy contour (M24 type), a Greybo Phoenix stock, and a Coltac suppressor cover.

What ammunition is recommended for predator hunting with a .223 Wylde?

For predator hunting with a .223 Wylde rifle, 55 grain Hornady V-Max ammunition is recommended. It demonstrated sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards in this demonstration, making it suitable for precise shots.

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